Al Sufouh Beach (Black Palace) Dubai
Dubai's serene 'Secret Beach' offering iconic Burj Al Arab views and breathtaking sunsets. A tranquil escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Al Sufouh Beach (Black Palace) Dubai
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dubai's serene 'Secret Beach' offering iconic Burj Al Arab views and breathtaking sunsets. A tranquil escape.
"The most beautiful sunset spot in Dubai with the Burj Al Arab as a backdrop!"
🌅 Sunset Photography
Capture the iconic Burj Al Arab against a vibrant sunset. Bring your best camera gear!
🤫 Seek Serenity
This beach is known as 'Secret Beach' for its peaceful vibe. Perfect for a quiet escape.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Burj Al Arab Views
Along the shoreline
Iconic sail-shaped hotel backdrop for unforgettable photos and serene contemplation.
Sunset Spectacle
Western horizon
Witness Dubai's skyline transform as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant colors.
Tranquil Atmosphere
The sandy shores
Escape the city bustle on this peaceful stretch of sand, perfect for relaxation and quiet reflection.
Planning Your Visit
Is Al Sufouh Beach Open?
Best Time for Sunset Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunset Photography
Capture the iconic Burj Al Arab against a vibrant sunset. Bring your best camera gear!
🤫 Seek Serenity
This beach is known as 'Secret Beach' for its peaceful vibe. Perfect for a quiet escape.
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be tricky. Arrive early or be prepared for a short walk from nearby areas.
💧 Bring Your Own Water
There are limited facilities. Pack plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
Black Palace Beach / Secret Beach
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunset Photography
Capture the iconic Burj Al Arab against a vibrant sunset. Bring your best camera gear!
🤫 Seek Serenity
This beach is known as 'Secret Beach' for its peaceful vibe. Perfect for a quiet escape.
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be tricky. Arrive early or be prepared for a short walk from nearby areas.
💧 Bring Your Own Water
There are limited facilities. Pack plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
🛏️ Beach Blanket Essential
No sunbeds or umbrellas available. A comfortable beach blanket is a must for lounging.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Al Sufouh Beach is lauded for its stunning, unobstructed views of the Burj Al Arab and the Dubai skyline, especially during sunset, offering a peaceful escape from the city's hustle. While praised for its natural beauty and serene atmosphere, visitors should be prepared for the lack of facilities and potential for temporary closures.
"Is a Beach with .net for volleyball,security with bus stop very close and also accessible with the tram, have a uncovered parking area, few stay for camping and install sport equipment for kayak also outdoor boot camp the families are also welcome the only contra is there is not sweet water or changing room and not toilets, not service so make you sure that you bring with you all that yiu will need not commercial or retails sales"
Anuja Romi
"This beach was so beautiful. If you get a chance, do go! Please pick up your trash after you are done or this beach will get messy fast. We did see a jellyfish and a couple tiny fish. The planes and helicopters are flying overhead so that was neat as well. Find more of my photos and videos at #whenartandtravelcollide
Thanks, Crystal Fisher."
Crystal Fisher
"If you don't want to take a taxi or don't have a car, it's not easy to get here especially in summer. Walking in 44 degrees in hot sand, with no shadow - horrible. The beach itself is nice but think ahead. First consider how to get there and when. We had the feeling that it was not worth. But for sure there were hardly any people...."
Gabi H.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Al Sufouh Beach, also known as Black Palace Beach, is accessible by car. You can use King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street. While some older Reddit posts mention a private entrance, it's generally accessible from the main road. Parking can be challenging, so arriving early is recommended. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also viable options. +1
Direct public transport to Al Sufouh Beach is limited. The nearest metro stations are quite a distance away, making it less convenient. It's best to rely on taxis, ride-sharing apps, or driving yourself.
While some visitors have historically used 4x4 vehicles, recent information suggests the beach is generally accessible by regular cars. It's advisable to check current conditions as access can change.
The entrance is typically off King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street. While it was once referred to as 'Secret Beach' with a more discreet entrance, it's now more commonly found via general navigation.
Al Sufouh Beach is located in the Jumeirah area, which is relatively close to downtown Dubai. Travel time by car is usually around 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Al Sufouh Beach is a public beach and does not require an entrance fee or tickets. It's free to access for everyone.
Al Sufouh Beach is generally open 24 hours a day, as it's a public space. However, for the best experience and safety, visiting during daylight hours and sunset is recommended.
There have been periods of temporary closure for Al Sufouh Beach, often due to development plans. However, community discussions suggest it's not permanently closed and has reopened at times. It's best to verify current status before visiting. +1
As a public beach, standard beach etiquette applies. Avoid littering and respect the environment. Specific restrictions might be in place during temporary closures or events.
No, Al Sufouh Beach operates on a first-come, first-served basis. There's no system for booking spots, so arriving early, especially for sunset, is advisable.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hour, just before sunset, offers the most magical lighting for photos at Al Sufouh Beach. The soft light beautifully illuminates the Burj Al Arab and the skyline.
The shoreline provides excellent vantage points for capturing the Burj Al Arab. Experiment with different angles along the beach to get unique shots of the iconic hotel and the city skyline.
Yes, Al Sufouh Beach is a popular spot for professional photoshoots, especially for families and couples, due to its scenic backdrop.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive skyline and beach. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating the Burj Al Arab. Don't forget a tripod for stable shots during sunset.
Drone usage in Dubai is subject to strict regulations. It's essential to check the latest rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone near Al Sufouh Beach or any other public area.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Al Sufouh Beach is a natural, undeveloped beach, meaning there are no cafes, restaurants, or shops directly on the premises. Visitors are advised to bring their own food and drinks. +1
The closest dining options are a short drive away in the Jumeirah area or along Sheikh Zayed Road. You'll find a wide variety of restaurants, from casual eateries to fine dining.
Yes, picnics are a popular activity at Al Sufouh Beach. It's a great way to enjoy the sunset with your own prepared snacks and meals. Remember to clean up after yourself.
While not directly at the beach, you might find some food trucks or vendors operating in the vicinity, especially during peak hours or weekends. However, it's not guaranteed, so bringing your own provisions is the safest bet.
Food delivery services generally operate in the area. You can order from various restaurants and have them deliver to a nearby accessible point.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Since facilities are minimal, families should come prepared with all necessities, including plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and beach toys. The lack of commercial establishments means a more natural and less crowded experience, which can be a plus for families wanting to avoid overwhelming crowds. The stunning views of the Burj Al Arab also provide an exciting visual element for children.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
This beach is ideal for capturing iconic Dubai landmarks in a serene setting. Whether you're looking for landscape shots, portraits with a stunning backdrop, or time-lapses of the sunset, Al Sufouh Beach provides ample opportunities. Remember to bring your essential gear, including tripods and a variety of lenses, and be aware of any regulations regarding professional equipment or drone usage.
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
While there are no amenities, this adds to the beach's charm for those who prefer a more natural and less commercialized experience. You can enjoy a quiet sunset, reflect on your travels, and take in the impressive views of the Burj Al Arab without the hustle and bustle. Just remember to pack everything you need for a comfortable stay.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Al Sufouh Beach: Dubai's 'Secret' Gem
Despite its growing popularity, the beach retains a sense of exclusivity due to its less commercialized nature compared to other Dubai beaches. This lack of extensive facilities contributes to its charm, encouraging visitors to bring their own provisions and enjoy a more natural beach experience. Recent discussions on Reddit indicate that the beach has experienced temporary closures for development, so it's always wise to check for the latest status before planning your visit.
Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot to relax, a breathtaking backdrop for photography, or simply a beautiful place to watch the sunset, Al Sufouh Beach delivers. Its unique blend of natural beauty and iconic city views makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Dubai.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at Al Sufouh Beach
Beyond the sunset, the beach itself offers a serene foreground. The calm waters and soft sand provide a peaceful contrast to the impressive urban backdrop. Experiment with different angles along the shoreline to find unique compositions. Wide-angle lenses are excellent for capturing the expansive views, while telephoto lenses can help isolate the Burj Al Arab for a more dramatic effect. A tripod is highly recommended for sharp, stable shots as the light fades.
While the beach is a popular spot for professional photoshoots, its natural beauty also appeals to casual photographers. Remember to be mindful of other visitors and respect their space while you capture your perfect shot. Always check local regulations regarding drone photography, as permits are often required.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit